Darrell Davis: Bouchard shows toughness

Canada’s top female tennis player stood her ground. Bouchard’s recent behaviour led to questions about her maturity. But she recently called out Maria Sharapova, who had been suspended for illegal drug use.

Bouchard used to idolize Sharapova. A few days ago she called Sharapova a “cheater” and said that cheaters should be banned from tennis. In response, Sharapova told reporters she was used to being criticized.

Then they met Monday in Madrid. Bouchard won in three sets and afterwards glared in Sharapova’s direction. They shook hands at the net. It was icy. Not a word was exchanged. Bouchard told reporters afterwards, “There was a lot of players coming to me privately and wishing me good luck. I won for all of them.”

Bouchard actually won for integrity. And tuck away those questions about her maturity.